The Impact of High-Performing Architectural Systems for Healthcare Facilities

In the ever-changing landscape of healthcare architecture, high-performing architectural solutions are the backbone of modern medical facilities. Hospitals, medical centers and other healthcare buildings must be not only functional but also conducive to the well-being of patients, staff and visitors. In this article, we dive deeper into the benefits that high-performing systems bring to healthcare projects, along with specific Kawneer products that meet the various needs of healthcare facilities. 

Enhanced Patient Comfort and Healing 

One of the primary goals of any medical center or healthcare facility is to promote patient healing and comfort. High-performing architectural systems play a crucial role in creating environments that are both soothing and supportive.  

Features such as advanced HVAC systems and ventilation ensure optimal indoor air quality and a more comfortable atmosphere. Kawneer’s GLASSvent® UT (Ultra Thermal) Windows are visually frameless concealed vents designed to provide a ventilation option for curtain wall systems with high thermal performance. View our product flyer to learn more. 

Natural lighting has been shown to improve patient outcomes by reducing stress and promoting faster recovery. Our InLighten® Interior Light Shelf is designed to reflect sunlight deeper into the interior of a building, helping reduce the need for electrical lighting as well as energy consumption. With depths up to 30” (762mm), this solution leverages minimal material content, sightlines, weight, installation and maintenance efforts, all while maximizing value, daylighting and design options. Read our product flyer to learn more. 

Improved Energy Efficiency 

Healthcare facilities are known for their high energy consumption. High-performing architectural aluminum systems incorporate energy-efficient technologies that reduce the environmental footprint of these buildings. For example, our 2500 UT Unitwall® System combines the elegant aesthetics of a unitized curtain wall with ultra-thermal performance. With a 2-1/2″ (63.5mm) sightline, the unitized framing system reduces installation time and is ideal for a variety of applications. Discover the benefits of this system in our product flyer.  

Another solution that improves building energy efficiency is our Versoleil® Outrigger SunShades is an adaptable system that offers many combinations of outriggers, louver and fascia caps. The system’s versatility provides distinct aesthetics, maximum shading and energy savings. With 30″ (762mm) or 36″ (914.4mm) depth options, this system is compatible with curtain wall and storefront systems and provides variable blade options. Read our product flyer. 

Advanced insulation materials, energy-efficient lighting and sun control devices help in minimizing energy usage. This results in overall cost savings while aligning with sustainability goals, making healthcare facilities more environmentally friendly. 

Enhanced Accessibility, Safety and Compliance 

Safety and compliance are both important factors in healthcare settings. Architectural systems must maintain compliance with healthcare regulations and standards, which is essential for the operation of any medical facility. Buildings with accessible systems and safety features can assist occupants with special mobility needs. Thoughtfully engineered to meet accessibility requirements, Kawneer’s architectural aluminum systems help make accessible design a reality. 

Meeting building codes, standards and legislation, a variety of Kawneer’s systems can be combined with accessible hardware options, making them an ideal choice for architects who are committed to designing buildings that are accessible for everyone. For example, we can provide hardware for our OptiQ® AA®4325 Series Windows that meets the guidelines for operating force based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirement that operable windows should require no more than a 5 lb operating force. Our window hardware also allows for locking, unlocking and operating the window all in one motion with one hand.  

Designed with ease of access in mind, our operable windows can be paired with accessible hardware to create comfortable, inclusive environments that greatly enhance well-being for all. Discover our ADA-accessible hardware options. 

Operational Efficiency: Project Spotlight on Northside Hospital Cherokee 

The primary goal of the Northside Hospital Cherokee project in Canton, Georgia, was to incorporate ample natural light while maintaining the building’s structural stability and the comfort of those inside. Architects utilized the power of our 1600UT System™1 Curtain Wall to bring their vision to life.  

The system’s exceptional thermal performance and versatility allowed them to maximize natural light, creating a truly inspiring space optimized for recovery and well-being without compromising the comfort and well-being of patients and healthcare providers. The modern hospital’s holistic approach to architectural design and operational efficiency ensures that patients receive exceptional care in a state-of-the-art environment. Read the case study to learn more. 

Enhanced Staff Productivity and Satisfaction 

A well-designed healthcare facility not only benefits patients but also positively impacts staff productivity and satisfaction. Utilizing energy-efficient, high-performing architectural systems can help create a comfortable and efficient working environment for healthcare professionals.  

Features such as acoustic performance and noise control contribute to a better working environment, reducing stress and fatigue among caregivers and medical staff while also providing a comfortable, restful space for patients. These factors help lead to improved patient care and overall facility performance. 

Acoustic performance is an increasing priority for modern architectural design and is becoming a recurring requirement in project specifications. Through incorporating sound-dampening materials and techniques, high-performing systems can help reduce noise transmission between rooms. This is especially important in healthcare environments and spaces where privacy and quiet are valued.  

A wide range of our products have been tested for acoustic performance according to American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) 1801 and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) E90. The STC and OITC ratings have been calculated according to ASTM E413 and ASTM E1332. Click here to learn more.

Conclusion 

High-performing architectural aluminum systems are integral to the success of healthcare projects as they enhance patient comfort and healing, improve energy efficiency and ensure safety and compliance. These solutions also help boost operational efficiency, offer flexibility and adaptability and enhance staff productivity and satisfaction.  

By selecting advanced solutions, healthcare facilities can provide better care, operate more efficiently and adapt to future challenges with ease. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the importance of specifying efficient and sustainable architectural systems will only increase, making them a vital component of any modern hospital, medical center or healthcare facility. 

Discover our healthcare market solutions webpage to see how you can build sustainable facades that meet the needs of healthcare projects.  

Download our healthcare product portfolio to learn more about how Kawneer supports architects in building the healthcare facilities of tomorrow. 

Browse our healthcare projects to see how Kawneer’s architectural aluminum systems impact projects in the healthcare sector.